Myasthenia gravis: 75seleno-methionine scanning of thymus gland

The 75Se-seleno-methionine isotope thymus scanning was examined in a series of patients with myasthenia gravis. The method proved useful and informative in the diagnostics of myasthenia. Prior to thymectomy, the thymic tumour or a large gland could be observed and some hints could be gained concerning the biological activity of the gland. After the operation, the success of thymectomy could be checked and later a possible recidive could be shown or excluded. In non-operative cases the change in thymic activity could be followed which is an important sign of a malignant or tumorous growth of the thymus.